Polamalu speaks out against new emphasis on safety

The Steelers have become downright defiant in the two-plus weeks since the NFL cracked down on head-cracking hits against defenseless receivers.

From linebacker James Harrison to coach Mike Tomlin to president Art Rooney II, the Steelers have made known their displeasure with the league’s new approach. On Wednesday, safety Troy Polamalu joined in the chorus.

“It’s
football, you know,” Polamalu told Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “If people want to watch soccer then they can watch
soccer. But, honestly,
overseas when people are attracted to this game, they’re going to see
the big hits, they’re not going to care about touchdowns and different
things. So you’re also taking apart what attracts people to this game.”

Polamalu also believes that the Commissioner’s office needs some checks and balances.

“[H]e’s
got all the power; that may be part of the problem, that there needs to
be some type of separation of power like our government,” Polamalu said. “There should
be some type of players involved in decisions over how much people
should be fined or what they should be fined for, as well as coaches, as
well as front office people.

“I don’t think it should be just totally based on what two or three
people may say who are totally away from the game. I think it should be
some of the players who are currently playing.”

Either way, Polamalu said that the Steelers’ players are on the same page regarding the league office’s new approach. “I don’t think there’s any confusion,” Polamalu said. “I just think the problem is that they’re wrong.”

Regardless of what Polamalu or any other Steelers player thinks, the reality is that they don’t get to make the rules. Thus, objecting to the new approach to protecting defenseless receivers has the same benefit as objecting to a touchdown being worth six points.

The management and coaching staff of the Steelers are doing the team and the league no favors by fomenting this rebellion. We realize that the Steelers simply want to win games and that they’ve built a team premised on hitting opponents hard, but the franchise for which Mike Webster played should have greater sensitivity to the league’s attempt to protect today’s players from a similar consequence.

I have to hand it to the Steelers. Their defensive philosophy is different from most teams. The other 31 teams just try to make tackles, but the Steelers hit like they want to break the spirit of their opponents.
The rest of the league should take a cue from them.

Que:
Brainless steelroid morons asking each other what they should say, what they should write, and then pummelling this board enmass.
This is getting stupid.
Can anyone make these guys shut up?
steelroid nation, what you think doesn’t matter. we don’t take you seriously.
we know your titles are tainted.
you are cheap shot artists.
you are ignorant, dumb, and fit all the descriptions of a bunch of thugs.
the league has given you preferential treatment for over 40 years.
Just shut up!
Clemens Check
Bonds Check
McGuire Check
Canseco Check
71-79 Steelroids Taboo, (shush, don’t talk about it, maybe everyone will just forget about the facts)

League doesn’t care about Mike Webster….he wasn’t a WR. I agree with Polamalu, except for maybe the international response as to why they watch the game. I’m sure they like the hitting, but I’m sure there’s more to it than that.

Any second now……the Unemployed Yinzers who, thru their football teams ability to create a life when none of them are capable, will respond…..We like our thugs, our rapists, our steroid abusers, it’s the only way we can get thru life, we will disguise it as a lombardi’s. but in the end, it’s all we have, they can cheat all they want, as long as they give us a life we are uncapable of acheiving on our own, but if you’re team does it, we will be the first to admonish….This from a fan base that well, for some odd reason, likes Ketchup……..And by the way, Florio emailed me, told me hits were down, so i figured i knew a way to get about 2o00 responses…..

Goodell should have “great sensativity” before he goes and changes the game of football by making the referees the third team on the field. ever since that guy got here refs have been deciding games with these pussy calls.. cowboys wouldve won at least 4 games by now if not for these new pussy goodell rules.. and he’s running this league like he’s a dictator… who the hell does he think he is… he cares more about the shield then he does about the actual game! and he probably conspires against the cowboys being from new york and all but thats a different story

Yeah you’re right Florio.
When something sucks, everybody it affects should just go along with it and STFU, instead of voicing their opinions in hopes of changing it for the better (or so they think).
Why are you such an establishment guy now? Was it the signing with the establishment known as NBC?
If they (and most players) think the same way, they need to be heard. After all, they’re the one, you know, playing the game.

Interesting you mention Mike Webster – and not Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Franco Harris or Terry Bradshaw…etc/all….Webster played center not any of the positions the new “rules” protect, and he is the one that suffered, the others haven’t experienced anything as far as I know….so where are the rules to protect the linemen? Thing is – Polamalu is 100% right.

Florio, get your nose out of Godell’s behind. That is a valid point he makes about having checks and balances…The NFL front office is not on the football field…but their okay fining 75K to a player for making a football hit! Come on dude…Get your head in the game…This is going to become a silly, silly sport if this continues.

Then the league should make the older style helmets ILLEGAL ! I still can’t believe no one has brought up the helmets and equipment. New helmets are safer, as are the new shoulder pads. Have you seen the size, or lack of, that some of these DBs and WRs are wearing ? Kids in pop warner wear bigger pads.
The game is DANGEROUS and that is one of the reasons it’s so popular. Why do you think soccer is so lowly rated?? No one wants to see guys faking injuries from barley being hit. These plays know what they are getting themselves into and are well paid to do so. A free college education and a great financial start for the ones who are smart enough to take advantage of their opportunity.

I’m not a steeler fan and I think polamalu needs a haircut. BUT, I agree 100 percent. The NFL is called the no fun league and soon it will be called the NO FANS LEAGUE and then it will transform into the NO FUNDS LEAGUE. By that time we will be watching the UFL. And telling our kids how once upon a time we used to watch this sport called football. This all sucks

‘Rebellion’ is a good word to describe this current fad, but it isn’t being led by players like Troy who actually play this game and call it their profession.
The ‘Rebellion’ that is, the CHANGE to this great game of football is being led by people like Peter King & Bob Costas. People who should have absolutely NO SAY whatsoever about a game that they’ve never played and have never had any professional involvement with. Florio you’re on the wrong side of the fence. You should stick to straddling it on the sideline. 😛

Wow! So according to Florio, when one or two people are making and enforcing all the rules/laws over a larger group of people who have no voice, those people should just shut up and take it. Good thing the founding fathers of America weren’t skirts like Florio.
And since you invoked the name of Mike Webster, how many times was he a “defenseless receiver”? Oh, never? And he still got brain damaged playing on the O-line? Well, where are the rules to protect the linemen? 40% of the players on the field are lineman, yet the league could care less about them since the blows they take to the head EVERY SINGLE PLAY, don’t look bad on t.v.
Goodell is ruining the NFL, and Foolio is asking players to sit idly by and not speak their voices. It is unfortunate that there are no player elections of league officers, or we would be seeing a revolt against them like we saw in the political world last night…

“The management and coaching staff of the Steelers are doing the team and the league no favors by fomenting this rebellion.”
=================
What rebellion? Are you honestly arguing with the idea that players and coaches should have some input into the process? Florio, you are probably the #1 critic of the commissioner’s role as judge, jury, and final court of appeals. Clearly Polamalu’s ideas make sense – to have some additional input into these decisions.
And, why should a guy get a $75,000 fine on a hit in which his helmet did not collide with the opponent’s, and the only damage was because the opponent ducked his head into the hit area?

Is this a joke? Goodell and Anderson need to be dealt with! The players make the league not those 2 crossdressers!
If I were them I would strike. The NFL needs the players more than the players needs them. How are you going to fine players 2 weeks after the fact. Some people just DO NOT need power.
It’s ROBBERY! They are robbing more people then the Compton Crips!! Someone has to do something. THANKS RODNEY HARRISON!! See what you started. If were James Harrison and any player that got fined I’d beat your ASS!!

A player that can get his hat on a football when the opponent is running full speed, or can jump 3 feet in the air and finger tip catch a football, or that has the dexterity to strip a football while running flat out, certainly has the ability to keep his helmet from striking another players helmet at full speed.
I spent some time a few weeks ago looking at you tube highlights of “old time” players like Dick Butkus. I saw some wicked ass hits but the true helmet to helmet hit was very rare. The game does not need 8 lb helmets traveling at 15-20 mph impacting each other. It didn’t need it 40 years ago, it doesn’t need it now.

I certainly would rather have them speak their true opinions as opposed to become “talking heads” and agreeing with the league when they don’t. Polamalu, of all people is one of the most sensitive, soft spoken, most respected members of the team. Generally when he speaks, the truth is heard.

The rule is not about “defenseless receivers” is about helmet to helmet collisions. Your attempt to guilt the current Steelers for their on-field behavior by invoking the memory of HOFer Mike Webster is weak. The equipment used today is generations more advanced than what Webster used. You do realize that the Steelers encouraged Mike Webster to retire, he refused and played two more years for the Chiefs. Do the Chiefs change their on-field behavior?
But let’s use your logic, should the Patriots modify their actions because of Darryl Stingley? How about the Raiders because of Jack Tatum or the Cowboys on the early retirement of Troy Aikman due to concussions?

ya fan and player in america feels the same way. so why does one square jack ass get to rule the roost? nfl is gunna lose fans slowly, soon ppl are just going to go back to working on there houses cause its more entertaining

Seriously Florio – is everything just black and white? Could there not be a grey area here? Seems to me that Polomalu makes some valid points (which have been made by many other current and former players and coaches).
Maybe, for once, you could consider that the two sides actually should work out an arrangement instead of predictably picking a side and not wavering from it.
Gets old.

What a bunch of crap! —-Mike Webster, should have been well taken care of by the NFL like all post NFL players should have been with amazing health benefits and great pensions and all that but the NFL didn’t give a rats ass about him or the rest of them and instead are ruining the game that the players and fans alike have loved for so many years. It shocks me that Florio even likes football, the guys such a freaking wussy, probably never even played peewee football and even now would get run over in peewee football and run off crying to the principle or whoever. He just doesn’t get why people climb mountains or surf big waves or try that third flip on a motorcycle or get into base jumping and all for free usually. Hell, people spend a lot money to do so many things way more dangerous then pro football but now we have a control freak commissioner making pro football a crime so grown men choosing to be involved in a once great sport can’t even play without worrying about getting kicked out of the league or whatever. Polamalu loves playing football (real football) and can see that being taken away from him and real NFL fans and it sucks and the NFL will pay a steep price for it in the future. Hey, Polamalu —- MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU BROTHER!!!!

Troy is absolutely right. Goodell has far too much power and is changing the game for the worse. Even if you take away the helmet-to-helmet issue……..Goodell has been changing the game for the worse.
And you’re wrong, Florio. Despite what you may think, most fans don’t like the changes that are happening in the NFL (at least not the ones old enough to have been watching since at least the 80’s). Go prowl any NFL-related message board on the internet and you’ll find that NFL fans in general have a poor opinion of Roger Goodell and his policies. Not too long ago NASCAR made fundamental changes that were unpopular with not only the fans but also the race teams. Fans eventually spoke with their wallets and NASCAR was forced to change the rules back. The NFL will eventually be forced to do the same…..and dropping Mike Webster’s name won’t make any difference.

Yeah Troy, we don’t need no special rules to protect players do we? So how bout we get rid of that nonsense rule that says your hair is not part of your uniform and let’s see how much you scream bloody murder the first time your tackled by it.
typical hypocrytical Stealer turd

1.) Troy is correct about the Commish and power. They will have to wait for the next contract negotiation…
2.). The league needs to take a leadership position on setting performance specs for helmets. This can’t be overstated.
3.). The line between legal and illegal hits needs to move. It was an understandable given the injury to the Rutgers player the day before the three hits. The way the league addressed it was poor and a knee-jerk reaction. The week after the three hits was very poorly done.

Oh but you are quite wrong, Mr. Florio. The player DO get to make the rules. The players are everything. The Steelers stocked with replacements isn’t going to be quite the draw.
The owners are on the verge of locking the players out. If I’m the players, I oblige them. DeMaurice Smith should fire this shot across the bow — the NFLPA is changing its name to the UFLPA. Troy just signed with their new Pittsburgh franchise. Oops.

wow…some people just dont get it. polamalu doesnt want anyone to get hurt…no one wants to send someone to the hospital and have to live with that…but the point is that goodell has the power to fine any player any amount at any time…even weeks after a game. polamalu has a good solution…at least admit that much. so far he has been the only person with one…form a comittee…take away some of goodells power and spread it among those who actually know the rules.

I lost all respect for Troy as soon as he started doing those lame-assed Head and Shoulders comercials. They made him look soft; then the Saints abused him like the bitch he portrays on TV. I hope he made a boat load of money to sacrifice his manhood like that.

The league really hasn’t done anything to prevent life changing problems like the ones Mike Webster had. His troubles weren’t caused by going over the middle and getting blasted every now and then, it was because of the repeated head trauma every play while he was banging around on the offensive line. No changes have been made in that area. I’m really not sure what kind of changes they could make.

As A Ravens Fan I hate everything about the steelers! Except this. good for someone standing up to the mailroom man goddell. Cheap shots are mostly removed from the league and if not FINED heavily. However, big hits are big hits and as ENTERTAINERS those paid should expect them as part the game/contract.
As the GOAT SAYS IT”S A MANS GAME! Please make room for those many and all willing to play the game as those many great defensive teams of the past have like the bears, ravens steelers, chiefs, vikings, raiders, colts. I know without that brutal old school football all those geniuses like Mike Webster would be sailing on the cape enjoying their lives. somehow I doubt it!

Polamalu, the Steelers, and their PRESIDENT aren’t the ones doing the whining like some are suggesting… They are defending the way they play the game, hard and all-out. The only whining I keep hearing is from these sports writers and lawyers who are dissecting hits in frame-by-frame slow motion and then crying foul. Grow a sack. The players assume the risk in involved when they sign on the dotted line to their multi-million dollar contracts. Police officers have dangerous jobs.. Why are we not crying foul because their jobs are too dangerous? Sure, advancing technology has helped equipment over time and will continue to do so. But in the end, you just have to let these people do the jobs they freely signed up for.

@if yer not first…Larry Johnson did tackle him by the hair a few years ago and he didn’t scream “bloody murder”. instead of taking cheap shots (really, his hair of all things) why not listen to the real point he’s trying to get across.

I’m honestly shocked that its taken this long for someone to speak out against Goodell’s dictatorship that is being Commissioner of the NFL… Its a load of crap that he is the one who makes the rules, lays out the fines, and handles the appeals to what he’s already ruled. There needs to be another answer that helps balance the power that he has.

Florio who is paying you to back the NFL up?
Oh yeah the NFL most be paying you so can kiss butt.
Why do you want to soften the NFL up Florio? I posted things before and i never see them posted when I argue against you on this issue!
Lets see if this one gets posted!

No cheap shots here, only a thought. The players are bigger, faster and stronger in football today. The equipment has not kept up with the needs of the game. The helmet needs to revamped. Would a soft outer surface make any difference?

Okay, all the players, coaches, and owners have had a couple weeks grace period to bitch about this. It’s time to stop the whining, and start fining them.
Frankly, if they can’t make a play without launching themselves helmet-first into somebody, maybe they’re just not that good of a player.

Yeah Troy, we don’t need no special rules to protect players do we? So how bout we get rid of that nonsense rule that says your hair is not part of your uniform and let’s see how much you scream bloody murder the first time your tackled by it.
typical hypocrytical Stealer turd
—————————-
He’s been taken down numerous times by his hair on INT/fumble returns and has never once complained about it. In fact, he said it’s the price he pays for having long hair. So STFU and go sit in the corner until I give you permission to come out.

Perfect. The Steelers always do better when they have an “Us against the world” mentality. Goodell has been running the NFL like a banana republic since he became commissioner, and it’s about time people started to stand up to him. All of the NFL fans I’ve talked to agree that the ‘wussification’ of this league has gone far enough. Let the players and fans decide what kind of game they want football to be, not some snit-throwing bloggers or the MSM/ESPN chattering class.

I think Polamalu makes a great point. Fans love the violent nature of this sport, and the NFL knows it( Videos and Pictures for sale?). People in Europe initially make fun of the pads and helmet until they actually watch a game and realize how brutal it can be. Goodell is becoming too knee jerk and objective with his fines/punishments. Oh, by the way…Polamalu WAS tackled by his hair by Larry Johnson a few seasons ago after an interception. You didn’t hear a peep from him…maybe have some facts before you make bogus statements!!

if yer not first… says:
November 3, 2010 11:08 PM
Yeah Troy, we don’t need no special rules to protect players do we? So how bout we get rid of that nonsense rule that says your hair is not part of your uniform and let’s see how much you scream bloody murder the first time your tackled by it.
typical hypocrytical Stealer turd
—————————————————-
Hey numb nut how about Troy saying this AFTER Larry Johnson did tackle him by his hair.
‘ “No, it didn’t hurt,” Polamalu said in the aftermath. “It felt good.”
He did concede that he had never been dragged down by his hair before.
“No, but if I got the ball in my hands, they can tackle me all day like that,” Polamalu said. “We had a lot of fun out there.” ‘
By the way to my knowledge, the “Ricky Rule” is still in effect. This rules that the hair, directly extending from under the helmet, is part of the uniform and therefore legal to grab. It is, however, illegal to grab it, twist it and not release it after they are on the ground.

Troy was already tackled by his hair by Larry Johnson , and Troy took it like a man. Wasn’t it Joey Porter who was upset about it?
The QB’s are the true problem in the NFL, like the helmet to helmet on Hines – Ben left Hines out to dry knowing a safety was closing in from behind. BUT!
It’s sure a hell of alot better then a QB leading his WR into the waiting arms of “any” LB or SS in the NFL.

I agree they’re not doing themselves any favors. And I don’t think Troy takes issue with obeying the rules as they’re written. This problem occurred when the league overfined Harrison after the Cleveland game, making it appear that he was being singled out. Goodell took the focus off reinforcing the existing rules and put it on James Harrison. When everyone finally settled down and seemed to get back to normal, the League took a simple late hit on the QB and decided to blow that into something it wasn’t: a helmet spear on Drew Brees.
As long as Goodell is free to make examples of players because he or his minions have been (justly) criticized by a coach, owner, or player, this confusion will continue. Polamalu is right, the commissioner is in desperate need of oversight … or better yet, overthrowing.
A coup, yeah, that’s the ticket.
(Seriously, Florio, you cannot think this guy is competent. He’s glaringly inconsistent.)

Goodell takes it deep. REAL deep. But thats no secret. Again…for these stupid bloggers who try to act smart and pretend to say smart things……IT IS FOOTBALL. I dont remember so mabye someone can refrsh my memory..but how many players in the NFL history have died right there on the field from being hit? And for the Steelers haters, you sound stupid talking trash that doesnt make any sense. bla blah cheap shots….blah blah refs on ther side…i mean get real panzys….you sound like your 12 and just learning the game. If the refs were on our side we would have alot more than 6. Even tho 6 is pretty damn satisfying.

The management and coaching staff of the Steelers are doing the team and the league no favors by fomenting this rebellion. We realize that the Steelers simply want to win games and that they’ve built a team premised on hitting opponents hard, but the franchise for which Mike Webster played should have greater sensitivity to the league’s attempt to protect today’s players from a similar consequence.
hey Mike ……you sir are a retard ……oh that is right he was made to play at gun point ……opps your right ….

so when the raiders used to hit you jackasses like that, they were criminals, but, you guys are ‘just playing the game’.
so, troy, when you ‘accidentally’ paralyze someone, just playing the game’, i don’t want to hear your whiny ass.
tatum hit a guy legally, and has been blackballed by the hof.
you deserve the same for your statements.
oh, and how many steelers have died from steroid use?

# if yer not first… says: November 3, 2010 11:08 PM
Yeah Troy, we don’t need no special rules to protect players do we? So how bout we get rid of that nonsense rule that says your hair is not part of your uniform and let’s see how much you scream bloody murder the first time your tackled by it.
typical hypocrytical Stealer turd
*********************************************
Are you joking? Polamalu’s been tackled by his hair before; no flag was thrown, nor did he get up after the play and act like there should have been one. Therefore, why are you talking? Also, learn how to spell – it’s “hypocritical.”
*********************************************
*********************************************
Florio says:
Thus, objecting to the new approach to protecting defenseless receivers has the same benefit as objecting to a touchdown being worth six points.
*********************************************
Once again you ignore context in a manner that changes the story, Florio. Specifically, you managed to conveniently chop out relevant details concerning what Polamalu said in reference to the Harrison fine. If I recall correctly (someone else can look it up; it was on the Post-Gazette website earlier), one of Polamalu’s primary objections pertains to the fact that defensive players can be fined for can winding up for a hit aimed at someone’s chest but, because the ball-carrier drops his head, helmet-to-helmet contact results because the defensive player cannot adjust his trajectory in time. This reads just a little differently than your spin that basically implies Polamalu saying, “No, we should be allowed to hit ‘defenseless receivers.'” You mention that Steelers personnel help no one by speaking out; you help no one by butchering other people’s words and making them out to look like asses.

“We realize that the Steelers simply want to win games and that they’ve built a team premised on hitting opponents hard, but the franchise for which Mike Webster played should have greater sensitivity to the league’s attempt to protect today’s players from a similar consequence. ”
Way to demagogue the issue Florio. Nothing the league is doing is going to protect OL from the repeated blows to the head that come from line play and you know it.
But what else can we expect from Roger Goodell’s mouthpiece?

Shocking Florio supports a dictatorship, gasp!
Democracy is a reach but there should be a system to the punishments laid out. You can’t just say $ 5-10,000 for a hit and then decide two weeks later a similar hit is fined $ 75,000. It reeks of injustice.
A 3 degree fine level, say $ 5,000, $ 10,000 and $ 15,000 for varying levels of severity and if in the same player is is a repeat offender then he would be suspended with his game check still paid by the team but to the league office to fill the coffers for the retired players. Then players would be given fair warning and extremely stiff hits if they don’t conform. Like the yellow / red card system in soccer.
What do you say Mike do you want to use your considerable influence to make some good in the world?

“Yeah Troy, we don’t need no special rules to protect players do we? So how bout we get rid of that nonsense rule that says your hair is not part of your uniform and let’s see how much you scream bloody murder the first time your tackled by it.”
if yer not first… : Jesus F Christ! The rules DO allow tackling a player by the hair … and Polamalu HAS been tackled by his hair … and he did complain about it at all.
How stupid do you feel now?

“[H]e’s got all the power; that may be part of the problem, that there needs to be some type of separation of power like our government,” Polamalu said. “There should be some type of players involved in decisions over how much people should be fined or what they should be fined for, as well as coaches, as well as front office people.”
Genius. Don’t mind Florio, he wants to either work for the NFL or get a HOF vote. Hopefully neither will happen.
@if yer not first…
I could be wrong, but I believe there are no special rules protecting Troy’s or anyone else’s hair.

Troy said NOTHING dirty. All he’s saying is that a biased media and a couple of “committee members”shouldn’t influence all of the decisions.
I’m so god damn close to boycotting this website. I’ve been to everyday for 6+ years, and it’s unbelievable that the opinions have changed so much.
If you are such a god damn humanitarian, then go find a cause that’s worth it. There are a lot of people in the world suffering that need your help, not these multi millionaire ballplayers, who openly disagree with your pussy ass.

Steelers players are so f’n stupid. I hope one of them (Not Troy, I can actually stand him) get paralyzed from a hit.
I like that everyone is calling out the Steelers known steroid abuse in the 70’s.
Got Six?
Kiss the rings.
3 from roids. 2 from refs. 1 actual SB win.

First of all, this sounds like the rest of the team just asked Polamolu to come out and say something. Polamolu has nothing to worry about, and these “new” rules don’t have any effect on him because he’s one of the only Steelers(and football players in the league) who knows how to CORRECTLY tackle. He doesn’t use him helmet, and WRAPS UP instead. But Thug Harrison and Thug Clark couldn’t fight Goodell with words, so they asked the soft-spoken Polamolu to do so.
And as for there being seperation of power… Troy, I know it’s easy to overlook when you’re rich… but there is no seperation of power in the government.

Mike, I think he’s more concerned with the fact that the rules are not enforced across the board. The Steelers get flagged when other teams don’t for the same types of plays–namely holding and late hits. Until I see it properly enforced across the NFL, I will continue being upset at the double standard; and it is indeed a double standard.
Secondly, @ Sharkattack
You are such a scumbag. In the first place, everyone used roids in the 70’s. The officiating was arguably worse for the steelers in 2005 because Hampton and Haggans were not legally blocked on a single play.
Lastly, to recap, you are a scumbag and a gigantic crybaby, who knows nothing about football. It’s so obvious that you are just another homer, who likely cries about the officiating just like every other fan (only your team never gets screwed as bad as Pittsburgh).

Florio I have really enjoyed your site in the past but you really are amateur. Keep your opinions out and just report one-liners and rumors. Since you have joined with NBC your head has gotten bigger and you think your opinions matter…they don’t. Stick to what got you there or you’ll be gone soon.
What is going to happen next??? Are boxers going to have to wear head gear??
Football is a brutal sport…always has been. That is why it is so popular…

No one is taking hard hits out of the game, Jesus. Its illegal hits. I dont remember the NFL saying anything about only being able to hit with a certain force.
I like the idea of checks and balances though.

Florio says:
“the franchise for which Mike Webster played should have greater sensitivity to the league’s attempt to protect today’s players from a similar consequence.”
————————————————
Yeah we all know Webster became disabled due to being hit in the head while trying to catch a pass from Bradshaw down field.
If your stance is the new rules are the NFL trying to protect players like Webster then why no emphasis on blows to the head on the offensive and defensive line?
The point you were trying to make doesn’t support your argument.

I say again, the curtain is finally being pulled back on what the Squealer franchise has always been…..and not this model franchise with above reproach players nonsense…..
Of course squealer nation will just call everyone haters and jealous……. so have at us, but the country is now seeing what you really are……

i would find it funny if a D player and WR got together to prove a point, the WR wear a flag and have the D player grab it during a live game!!! just to show the idiocracy of not being able to hit a guy blind side. just like hockey dont skate with yourr head down or you get nailed!!!!!

@olskool711:
still a little bitter about the ’70s? its been a few years dude, maybe wanna let it go? just sayin…..even still, i’m with you, i bet the steelers were the ONLY team using steriods in the 70s…..

I really don’t like your angle on this topic Florio, or the one-sided way which you continue to present it.
Even if you don’t agree with Polamalu’s opinions there’s actually some good food-for-thought in there, and to suggest players should just “shut up and take it” is really an odd opinion to hold, if you ask me, given that this blog has thrived by posting players’ opinions that they’ve expressed over the years.
A lot of people seem intrigued about the checks and balances he described, but you chose not to comment about that at all. You’re take is much more simple and one-sided — that Polamalu can’t change any rules so he should not bother saying anything about them at all. Really, Florio? Is that how you’ve lived your life (and ran this blog)?

You can liken the NFL players to the American Citizens a year or 2 ago. Players are sick of being told what to do and feel that their freedom in being impinged on by the NFL and Goodell. Just like Americans are sick of the Federal Government. Same line of thinking.
The Players will revolt if this continues. Just like the American citizens have done in this past vote, ala the creation of the Tea Party.
NFL Players just want freedom to play the game the way it has always been played. They have signed up for a Man’s game, and they all know the risks to brains, to knees, to backs, to shoulders, etc. If they did not feel it was worth it (they love the game, they love the money, they love the spotlight and competition).
If someone signs up for something understanding the risks, that is THEIR CHOICE, it is THEIR FREEDOM. Quit telling the players how to live. The government more and more tells us how to live, how much money is too much to make, what kind of car to drive, on and on.
The veil of out of control lawyers helps drive the NFL now. Oh, we will have to pay all this money because some lawyer blames us for something that WE ALL AGREE ON as it is OUR FREEDOM.
Polamaulu and the Steelers are spot-on. I look for a revolt from the players. Wait till the first knee is blown out and a career is ended due to someone coming in low.
Players will walk out. And they should. Again, lawyers go away, NFL learn from this election. Let the players play, leave them alone. T

# Wukong says: November 4, 2010 2:45 AM
“Is it really any surprise that a team as dirty and cheap as the Steelers is collectively so up in arms about this?”
Can’t beat ’em? Call ’em names…
That’s all this is, all it’s ever been.
But that’s OK – your tears are our reward.

Florio, you are way off base here. The players in the NFL are not lemmings, and GODell is not God. But apparently, you believe GODell should be able to act like God, and all the players should act like lemmings and brainlessly fall behind whatever GODell says and behave. That is just plain dumb.
You don’t act like a lemming when discussing issues. Fact is Polamalu, Harrison, Rooney and Tomlin are not the first people that ever disagreed publicly with the NFL and GODell. How about Al Davis? He has disagreed with just about everything and sued the NFL in the past.
Polamalu should be able to speak his mind. Overall, I tend to agree with what he is saying. He is the one out there on the field, in the trenches, seeing exactly what is going on in real time. Are you? Is GODell? Is Andersen?
As well, GODell is a hypocrit and inconsistent. If Sims was a “repeat offender”, then why didn’t he get fined $75K like Harrison did? GODell is a complete jackass that is now making MORE headlines than the game itself is. It is a negative distraction. I wonder if this is a violation of HIS personal conduct clause in his employment agreement?
You really made a horses’ ass out of yourself with your “opinion” on this issue, as you continue your blatant (but successful) attempts to have a story about the Steelers which will get at least 100 posts.
Congrats to the Steelers for having the balls to speak their mind and NOT be lemmings.
GO STEELERS!!

olskol711…good post. Don’t forget about all the cocaine the Stealers were doing back in the 70’s also. I am so tired of hearing Squealers complaining….everyone has to play by the same rules. Stealers have had the refs on their side for decades….the last 2 superbowls were a joke, and the “immaculate reception’ is the all time worst called play ever. Squealer fans, stop your whining and go deer hunting or read your new copy of Field and Stream.

Quoting Florio: “Regardless of what Polamalu or any other Steelers player thinks, the reality is that they don’t get to make the rules. Thus, objecting to the new approach to protecting defenseless receivers has the same benefit as objecting to a touchdown being worth six points.”
Right.. that’s Troy’s point. Goodell has the freedom to pretty much make up rules and fines at his whim. Hence, pointing out this inequity does indeed have some benefit…
Your retort is somewhat like chastising women in the 19th century for complaining about not having the right to vote. Sure, white men made the rules… so did it have no benefit to bring that imbalance to light?

Hey hank moody, will you please quit complaining? I am so tired of hearing Steeler haters complaining. I can understand blatant jealousy about a team that has won over 13% of all that were ever played, but nonstop whining and complaining about bad calls, this and that, really makes you look like a baby. Do you also complain about that crappy meatloaf your wife made for dinner 4 years ago? I bet you do!
Sp Steeler haters, stop your whining and go deer hunting or read your new copy of Field and Stream.
GO STEELERS!!

Florio, you are missing the point completely and have been for 3 weeks. The argument the Steelers are making is this: how is it fair for a defensive player to be punished when he aims for the chest but the offensive player ducks, moves, etc. and causes helmet to helmet contact, as was the case with Harrison’s hit on Massaquoi. Massaquoi saw that he was about to get hit and curled up into a fetal position, thereby initiating the helmet-to-helmet contact. If he had taken the hit in the chest like a man he never would have been concussed. If you aren’t willing to accept the consequences of going over the middle, then don’t go over the middle. What if Massaqoui hadn’t been concussed and Harrison had? Would Massaquoi then have fined? I doubt it, even though he was the one that caused the hit to be dangerous. Offensive players need to have an equal degree of responsibility for preventing these kinds of hits. Otherwise we will see receivers intentionally ducking into helmet-to-helmet contact to draw a foul. The way this is being enforced could lead to more helmet-to-helmet contact and resulting head injuries. If offensive players were subject to fines, suspensions and penalties for ducking their heads when about to be hit, then I think everyone would be satisfied. These situations should all be subject to replay review to evaluate who caused the danger. As for Goodell, what right does he think he has to unilaterally begin such strict enforcement without consulting the union and it’s players reps? Could you imagine if GM starting fining it’s employees for not wearing helmets in the factory without consulting the UAW? All hell would break loose.

@habibfromnewdehli …
Perhaps it would be better if you limited yourself to commenting on football and refrained from trying to comment on the Constitutional limits of the U.S. government. Troy is correct. Our government is divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. Each plays a different role–therefore, we have a separation of powers. And built into the system is a series of check and balances designed to keep any one branch from making unilateral decisions. The system doesn’t always work perfectly, but the president can’t just issue edicts and enforce them with no Congressional input. And even if Congress approves a president’s agenda, it can still be overturned by the courts.
Although he works for the league, Roger Goodell seems free to do what he pleases without restraint. So far this year:
* He has rewritten the rules regarding the personal conduct policy in order to punish a single player. But he has not followed through by doling out similar punishment to other PCP violators.
* He made a unilateral decision about how to handle hits based on the comments of a television personality (Rodney Harrison) and announced it to the public without bothering to inform team owners, coaches, and players to ensure everyone understood the policy and was on the same page.
* He’s hired a soccer promoter to push worldwide expansion despite the overwhelming opposition of U.S. fans, the apparent opposition of most U.K. fans, and the costly failure of the World League.
* He still has not closed the Favre/Sterger case even though Sterger has now publicly admitted she is basically trying to extort Favre and/or the Jets for “suffering” she’s endured as a result of her own release (or careless handling) of Favre’s voicemails.
The man obviously needs some oversight.

if yer not first… says:
November 3, 2010 11:08 PM
Yeah Troy, we don’t need no special rules to protect players do we? So how bout we get rid of that nonsense rule that says your hair is not part of your uniform and let’s see how much you scream bloody murder the first time your tackled by it.
typical hypocrytical Stealer turd
————–
You’re a moron who obviously has no idea about the Steelers or Polamalu. He’s been pulled down by his hair several times and has yet to retaliate, yeah those dirty Steelers. Go crawl up under a rock and die already or go watch soccer.

Polamalu is right!! Roger Goodell should not have all the power. There should be player representatives involved in the decision making. Goodell’s NFL has sold photos on James Harrisons hits on NFL website and the NFL has made money off of them!! He wants to expand the season to 18 games how is that going to help the health of the NFL players. It is not right that Goodall has all the power. After all it’s like the old studio system of Old Hollywood where the stars who bring in all the money are subjected 100% by the studio heads. Its a kangaroo court! The players know what they signed up for and I want this to be NFL Football not Flag Football. NO ONE MAN should have total domination over this league!!

olskool711 You are sooooooooo stupid! Everyone in the 70s used steroids you can look that up, so it was evenly matched and they won those fairly. So Learn you facts before you make an ignorant comment that makes no sense, your just mad because first to six!

Funny, when I see the Steelers of the 70’s and how small they were compared to football players of today, I don’t think ‘steroids’, I think ‘eat something’.
The James Harrison Rule is going to ruin the sport if it’s not reeled in real fast.
Polamalu is a class act, and I find it funny that fans of physical teams, like the ratbirds fans, are talking smack when the Steelers players are fighting back on their behalf too.
The Steelers players, coaches, front office, and ownership have Cahones of Steel for standing up to the establishment.
What has happened to you, Florio? What event in your life has made you a critic of smashmouth football? That’s the brand of football you grew up loving, and now you are going all out to destroy what you used to love.
It’s kinda sad.

This country as a whole has gone soft. And now our beloved game is being turned into a PC version of what we used to love. This is why soccer never caught on this country and never will. We want to see people get hit hard. Drew Brees taking a shot in the back is part of the game we love. We love the intimidation factor. Granted no one wants to see someone ram their helmet into someones head. Thats one thing.
But this is turning into something stupid altogether. You cant celebrate, a catch in the end zone is all of a sudden vague, and now the league is cracking down on a rough hit. I mean come on. If you push to make this game soft, your fan base is going to lose interest. After a long week I want to see guys go all out on the field,not hold back cause theyre worried about a fine for something thats always been part of the game.
Players are bigger and faster. People are going to get hurt. Its part of the game and the excitement of it is what draws us to the sport. Make it unexciting and your left with soccer, something no one watches in this country

Yes the NFL really cared about Mike Webster after he retired. Webster frequently lived in his vehicle during his last years. His family had to sue for the financial benefits that he was entitled to as a former player and was awarded a seven-fugure settlement – after Mike died.

The soccer comments I keep seeing in media are incredibly stupid – especially since the sport is dealing with the same issues regarding concussions. Hell, just this week a former USA men’s national team member had to retire because of multiple concussions. And he sat out nearly two years attempting to see if the symptoms would subside.
I don’t see anything unmanly about using available medical data to prevent the medical community from having to deal with an overload of dementia patients in the future. If we’re wussy for acting responsible and with compassion then this nation is doomed.

MikePagelHaha, you are absolutely right. Thank you for your opinion. It is about time somebody has the courage to challenge the ethical confusion that appears to guide many of the voices on this site. If a ‘sissy sport’ like soccer (boy, I hate that term) has a concussion problem, what does that mean for throwball, where the number and severity of head-to-head collisions is far higher and extensive than any other major sport?
Have you people no shame?

MikePagelHaha, you are absolutely right. Thank you for your opinion. It is about time somebody has the courage to challenge the ethical confusion that appears to guide many of the voices on this site. If a ‘sissy sport’ like soccer (boy, I hate that term) has a concussion problem, what does that mean for throwball, where the number and severity of head-to-head collisions is far higher and extensive than any other major sport?
Have you people no shame?

No one can say one negative thing about Troy. I have the MOST respect for him as a player and a man. Him speaking up SCREAMS! I wouldn’t be surprised if the owners don’t kick Goodell out! That CBA can be broken in court. NOTHING supercedes the courts. The Steelers have 6 rings. They have the respect of the other teams. The Chief did that single handedly.
Players should tell good ole Roger to F himself. What’s he going to do, suspend the entire NFL? No. The fans should kick his ass. He is worthless and weak! Lambert said it best by saying why don’t we just put skirts on everyone right now. Brady is Mr. If You Touch Me You Get Fined. I hope Harrison takes him out and retires. NOW FINE HIM THEN. Won’t work. Boy is there going to be one hell of a strike coming. Harrison should hit the refs too. Since they are “part of the field” fine that!
What about Ray Lewis? He’s a freaking PATHETIC nut job and a murderer. I would LOVE to see Harrison hit him. Woo hoo! (Yes, I know they are both on defense).

Hey Ravens Fans..
Why don’t you go down to Bal-imore (they never pronounce the T) and live on North Ave. That’s what you deserve. I bet most of you live in Hartford county! “Goin’ down to da ocean hun?” Better yet, instead of North Ave… go and live in PG county. Hyattsville. NICE AREA! Deatbeat drug infested hole.
Baltimore, the murder capital. Ray Lewis is an example. If a car backfires everyone does a spread eagle on the ground. PIGS. You have a lot of nerve to talk about Troy like that. It’s funny as hell when he belts the shit out of your players.

Man, arguing against helmet-missile shots to avoid serious injury to life and limps is ridiculous. Even some legal shots are dangerous, look at Romo. Palumalu is right regarding GODell being the only sheriff in town. Godell should debutize a couple of experience cowboys, a committe.This doesn’t change the crime. The soccer comment is stupid especially coming from a player groomed as the face of the NFL itself. Troy make your point but choose your words wisely($) . There’s medical data to support that even several mild concussions throughout a career will add up to serious brain damage. Do you think if past NFL players knew this they wouldn’t have acted on it? The smartest players today are retiring earlier and making safe millions on TV and radio. Godell is protecting the product “goose that lay the golden egg” from unflavorable public/international opinion. The new expanding world-wide fan base will accept the game’s brutality but not without a common sense mentality. This is a business first, then a game.

for the MILLIONTH TIME, harrison’s hit on Mass was not HELMET TO HELMET. he hit him shoulder to helmet (also illegal). if you’re gonna make him the bad guy fine, just get the damn hit right! this demonification of the steelers is just ridiculous. everybody’s dirty, the refs cheat for them, nfl conspiracy this, nfl conspiracy that, STOP WHINING OR STOP WATCHING, one of the two.